Important Changes in ITR Forms for AY 2025-26 (Old Regime)

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June 12, 2025

Important Changes in ITR Forms for AY 2025-26 (Old Regime)

🚨 Important Changes in ITR Forms for AY 2025-26 (Old Regime)
*Increased Disclosure Requirements for Deductions & Claims*

The Income Tax Department has introduced key changes in the ITR forms for Assessment Year 2025-26, primarily impacting taxpayers who continue under the old tax regime. The new forms demand enhanced disclosures for various deductions and exemptions claimed. Here's a summary of what’s changed and what you need to report:

1. Detailed Reporting for Section 80C Deductions

Taxpayers must now specify the exact nature of investments made under Section 80C. This includes:
- Type of Investment: PPF, ELSS, NSC, Life Insurance Premium, etc.
- Amount Invested
- Payee/Issuer Details: Name of institution where investment is made

📌 Why it matters: This change aims to plug loopholes and prevent generic or duplicate claims under the umbrella of 80C.

2. Enhanced Disclosure for Section 80D (Health Insurance)

Deductions under Section 80D now require:
- Name of Insurer
- Policy Number
- Premium Details: Separate for Self/Family and Parents

📌 Tip: Ensure health insurance documents are in order to avoid issues during processing or scrutiny.

3. Mandatory Information for HRA Claims

For those claiming House Rent Allowance (HRA), the following details are now mandatory:
- Monthly/Annual Rent Paid
- Landlord’s Name
- Landlord’s PAN (if annual rent exceeds ₹1 lakh)

📌 Compliance Note: Failing to provide PAN of the landlord (where applicable) may lead to rejection of the exemption claim.

4. Loan Deduction Reporting: 80E / 80EEA

To claim deductions for:
- Education Loan Interest (80E) or
- Home Loan Interest (80EEA)

You now need to disclose:
- Name of Lender
- Loan Sanction Date
- Interest Amount Paid

📌 Ensure all EMI statements and sanction letters are readily available.

Summary: What Taxpayers Should Do Now

- Maintain complete documents (investment receipts, insurance policies, rent receipts, PAN details, loan sanction letters)
- Cross-check all entries before filing to ensure accurate and complete reporting
- Use appropriate ITR Form matching your income type and deduction claims

🧾 Final Word:
While these changes may increase the reporting burden slightly, they aim to enhance transparency and reduce false claims, ensuring smoother processing of ITRs and faster refunds. Taxpayers are advised to prepare early and consult professionals where needed.

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